Switchable Induction Light With Wireless Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional induction lighting systems fail to turn off the light when the primary power supply is disconnected, as the back-up battery continues to power the light module, violating safety standards in humid environments like kitchens and bathrooms.
Innovation Solution
A lighting system with a light fitting and light module that uses inductive coupling for power transfer and a wireless switch signal to control the light's on/off state, allowing the light to be turned on and off independently of the primary power supply, with a controller managing power from either the coil or back-up battery based on the received signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a back-up battery is added to provide power during mains failure, then reliability is improved, but the light cannot be switched off safely when mains power is disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply function into two independent parts: a primary coil for receiving mains power and a back-up battery for emergency power. This allows the system to maintain reliability while enabling safe shutdown through separate control of each power source.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication system (transmitter and receiver) as an intermediary between the light fitting and light module. This mediator transmits switching signals without electrical connections, enabling safe control in humid environments while maintaining the ability to switch off both primary and back-up power sources.
2Ease of operation
If wireless switching is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical electrical connection system with a wireless electromagnetic communication system. The transmitter in the light fitting and receiver in the light module communicate via electromagnetic signals, eliminating the need for physical electrical contacts while enabling easy on/off control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures safe operation by maintaining electrical connections internal, allowing the light to be turned on and off without exposed connections, and keeping the back-up battery ready for power failures while meeting safety standards for humid environments.
Implementation Method 1
having an electrical output comprising a coil arranged to provide a power signal inductively to the associated light
Implementation Method 2
a transmitter (170) arranged to send a further, switch signal wirelessly to the associated light
Data Source
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AI summary
A light fitting (10) is provided with a first connector piece arranged to support a light (20) and provide power thereto, an input connected to a power source and arranged to provide power permanently to an output comprising a primary coil (15), and a transmitter (170) operable to transmit a switch signal. A light (20) is provided comprising a sealed light housing, a light source, a back-up battery, a controller and a second connector piece having a secondary coil (35) and a receiver (180). The receiver receives the switch signal and the controller controls power delivery to the light source in response to the switch signal received by the receiver thereby to turn the light on and off. The light fitting and the light are arranged to present the primary coil and the secondary coil for inductive coupling therebetween and to present the transmitter and the receiver for wireless communication therebetween.